« Back in Kurmuk | News Index | Two Good Things »
March 29, 2006
Sheila Plants, Bev Waters
Dear friends,
A few years ago Samaritan's Purse had a married couple stationed in Kurmuk. Their names are Jed and Sheila. They are working somewhere in West Africa at this time, but their impact in Kurmuk continues. They stayed in Kurmuk during the bombings, suffering along with everyone, and it made an indelible impression. Everyone still talks about them. I mean, seriously, not a week goes by without someone asking if we know them.
Sheila used to teach some classes, including one on the fruits of the Spirit. I have no idea if it was entitled "how to be a good person" or if it was an overtly Christian teaching session. She was teaching young Muslim girls. One of the little girls was named Omima. Four years later she is now a nurse trainee at the hospital.
The other day Omima was guiding me (Chris) to a friend's house. She began to complement Beverly in the nicest way. "She is so beautiful and intelligent and such a good teacher!" That is amazing because Bev has been dealing very sternly with Omima's "attitude". To hear such praise was quite incredible.
Then she amazed me again. She said, "Beverly has love, joy, peace, patience, and kindness, goodness, and self-control." I was shocked! She had just quoted the fruits of the Spirit from Galatians 5!
"Where did you learn that?" I said. "Are you a Christian?" I blurted out, knowing full well she was not. Omima is a member of a 100% Muslim tribe. "Oh, no," she said, "but Sheila used to teach us about those things, so I can see Beverly is like that."
Wow. I am amazed at how God used a faithful teacher named Sheila who probably had no idea the kids were paying attention. And I am so thankful for an amazing, godly wife who is living through the Spirit.
Love to you all,
Chris
******************
* SIM by Prayer *
******************
Published at March 29, 2006 01:39 PM
